The world famous Leica M-series is joined by an all-new model called simply the Leica M. The monomental follow up to the M9 sees the German camera-smith’s first 24 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, and even more exciting for some, the camera can mount Leica’s legacy R-series glass (with an adapter). Further features include 1080p HD video, a 3-inch display with Gorilla glass protector, live view, “splash-proof” body and optional EVF.

Leica is launching the new Leica M in early 2013 (for about $7000), while a stripped-down M-E model – with the M9‘s 18-megapixel full-frame sensor – will be available this month at about $5500. Whether or not anyone can afford these is another story but it can be said that you’re looking at an exceptional piece of engineering.